With the former Southampton prodigy struggling for game time since returning from a serious injury, the French coach stated that the talks may not be plain sailing.

The Arsenal man was embroiled in a similar situation a couple of years ago and was reluctant to pen an extension with Wenger’s men at that point also.

Walcott was given a rare start for the Gunners in yesterday’s 3-0 victory over London rivals West Ham at the Emirates Stadium, but this was only his third inclusion in the starting XI in the Premier League in 2014-15.

Some have backed the Gunners attacker, others feel that the player must show his worth before asking for a new deal with a pay rise in North London. Meanwhile a cynical section of the Emirates Stadium faithful could see him at a rival club next season. Here are the best tweets.

How can @theowalcott sandbag over a new contract when he simply doesn't deliver on the pitch. Speed matters? Not without control! #AFC

Gareth McKnight

I am a freelance football journalist from Northern Ireland, currently living and working from Broome in Western Australia. After a degree in sports journalism from the University of Stirling in Scotland, I started in the online football world and have worked for leading websites and media outlets since. My knowledge and passion is based around the Premier League and European football, but I also have a soft spot for the Australian A-League.